Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Book Description:

Perhaps one of the most misunderstood and misrepresented characters of the New Testament is Martha. Often painted in the colors of reproach, Martha seems to be the poster child for how not to be a follower of Jesus. From the mind of Diana Wallis Taylor comes this touching, well-researched portrayal of Martha of Bethany, sister of Mary and Lazarus. Through Taylor's lush descriptions and inspired combination of imagined and recorded dialogue, Martha's world—her trials, triumphs, and loves—vibrantly comes to life. Follow Martha as she is jilted by her betrothed, falls in love with a Roman soldier, grieves the death of her father, cares for her siblings, and serves her Lord with dignity and grace. Readers will never read the biblical story of Martha the same way again.

My Thoughts: Martha is just a young girl when her mother dies, she then becomes the womanly head of the household, caring for her father, brother Lazarus, and younger sister Mary. She believes she will never marry, once the one young man she wanted to marry chooses not to accept her father's offering. With her father's health declining, Martha feels all she will do is care for him and his house the rest of her days. Diana, does a beautiful job of pulling you right into Bethany, you feel like your walking the streets, you can hear the animals, and smell all the smells. I highly recommend this book! You won't be able to read about Martha, Lazarus, and Mary the same way ever again!